10 Offbeat Circuses

The Lucent Dossier Vaudeville Cirque Performance adds a layer of sensuality and maturity to make their shows stand out. Jeff Kravitz/Contributor

Circuses, we should point out, were always a little exotic. The "modern" circus began as a strictly equestrian performance, where riders would do acrobatic tricks in a hippodrome-like ring [source: Speaight]. Clowns and acrobats were added between performances for interest, and eventually animals and sideshow performers were brought in. Of course, this transformation took place only over the course of a few decades — circuses, in other words, moved quickly to keep up with demand and forestall waning interest.

The Lucent Dossier Vaudeville Cirque is a great example of an offbeat circus that has evolved to fit more modern tastes. It's also based in Los Angeles, but will travel to events like Coachella. The circus also performs often with musical acts in concert, or in music videos. At the heart of the Lucent Dossier Vaudeville Circus is a more sensual performance: Although you may be watching acrobats and contortionists, it's a cabaret-like atmosphere that's decidedly mature [source: Lucent Dossier Vaudeville Circus]. Don't go to the Lucent Dossier Vaudeville Cirque expecting cotton candy; you're more likely to be served absinthe.